Access to Indiana streams

[jsanders]

Do the public have access to non-navigable streams, to float a canoe or kayak, through an easement whether it is local, state or federal roadways and bridges? I have assumed public had access to the water at bridges up until now because of a no trespassing sign  that was posted and a gate in a spot that several people have used to float a stream to the next bridge. I understand navigable waterway laws, this is only for non-navigable water.

[morrison]

with non-navigable waterways, the bottom is owned by the property owner and the owner of the bottom has control of the surface. Therefore, you would have to have permission for each landowner that was covering the section(s) you wished to float. The owner of property around bridges may be owned by the state or another county entity but only for a portion. Then it would all be privately owned and permission would be required.